The family of Chris Cornell is questioning the ruling of a coroner that the rock star's death was a "suicide by hanging."
The family released a statement suggesting that Cornell's use of prescription drug Ativan may have prompted his behaviour. Ativan is an anti-anxiety medicine which can cause paranoia and suicidal thoughts in high dosages.
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“Chris’s death is a loss that escapes words and has created an emptiness in my heart that will never be filled. As everyone who knew him commented, Chris was a devoted father and husband....When we spoke after the show, I noticed he was slurring his words; he was different...When he told me he may have taken an extra Ativan or two, I contacted security and asked that they check on him....What happened is inexplicable and I am hopeful that further medical reports will provide additional details. I know that he loved our children and he would not hurt them by intentionally taking his own life. The outpouring of love and support from his fans, friends and family means so much more to us than anyone can know. Thank you for that, and for understanding how difficult this is for us.”
Original article by iHeartRadio